Ms. Paula Pearce OFS

Biography

A former instructor with the Franciscan International Study Centre (FISC), in Canterbury, Kent,much of Paula’s work has been for the Secular Franciscan Order. She has delivered talks on a range of Franciscan subjects and given reflective days/weekends. She was responsible for devising and preparing a five-year ongoing formation plan for members of the Order, initiated in2001-2002, when she was National Formation Director. She appointed and directed a team to share the work involved in this major project. She has contributed to the open learning material produced by the FISC concerning Franciscan history and spirituality. Her interests are in further research, relating specifically to the SFO in Europe. She is currently National Vice Minister for the SFO in England, Scotland and Wales. She was National Formation Director from 1999-2002.

Paula has been part of a team presenting “God’s Extravagant Love” to a range of audiences in the UK. This program was prepared by OSF sisters in the USA. It has inspired many of the participants. Paula is involved with training new instructors for this program.

Her main responsibilities with the Secular Franciscan Order continue to be in formation within her local new and developing region of the Order. She is currently Formation Minister locally and regionally. She has been presenting the new materials provided by the International Council and adapting it to inform members and enquirers in the region. She is also currently revising initial formation materials for the SFO. Paula is responsible for the current revision of the open learning program at FISC. She is supported by a new team who is helping to complete this task.

Paula holds a M.A. in Franciscan Studies from St. Bonaventure University and a B.A. in History from the University of Kent. She is the author of Prayers From Franciscan Hearts:Contemporary Reflections from Men and Women, published in 2008, by St. Anthony Messenger Press.